Five key contract extensions signed ahead of the 2026 NFL season

In the offseason, NFL teams prepare for the draft, make trades and secure their core players with contract extensions. Several stars signed major contract extensions this offseason. Here are five of the most notable extensions. 

1. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Seattle Seahawks

In the offseason, Jaxon Smith-Njigba signed a four-year, $168.6 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid wide receiver. He has $120 million guaranteed and will now be under contract with the Seattle Seahawks until 2031. 

The 24-year-old wide receiver is going into his fourth year with the Seahawks. He has improved each season and developed into one of the league's rising young receivers. Last season, he totaled 1,793 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. 

His ability to change direction without losing speed allows him to consistently create separation from defenders. The extension ensures he will remain the centerpiece of the Seahawks' passing attack for years to come. 

2. Will Anderson Jr., Houston Texans

Going into his fourth NFL season, Will Anderson Jr. signed a three-year, $150 million contract extension with the Texans. According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, this makes him the highest-paid non-QB. The 24-year-old had 54 total tackles, 35 solo tackles and an impressive 12 sacks. 

Anderson is a strong defender; he consistently generates pressure and disrupts opposing offenses, making him a finalist for 2026 Defender of the Year. As one of the league's top young defenders, the Texans made it a priority to keep him at the center of their defense. 

3. Jeffery Simmons, Tennessee Titans

Jeffery Simmons signed a three-year, $105.8 million contract extension with the Tennessee Titans, making him the highest-paid defensive tackle in league history. The deal includes $100 million guaranteed. 

The 28-year-old has spent all seven seasons of his NFL career with Tennessee. He ended last season with 67 total tackles, 39 solo tackles and 11 sacks. Simmons is not only a very talented and experienced player, but he has also stepped up as a leader for the Titans and truly understands and embodies their organization. Given his production and leadership, the Titans made keeping Simmons a priority. 

4. Drake London, Atlanta Falcons

In the offseason, the Atlanta Falcons signed Drake London to a four-year, $141 million contract extension, which guarantees $100 million. The 24-year-old is going into his fifth season with the Falcons and in the league. 

Last season, the wide receiver finished with 919 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. London has been a consistent but valuable receiver for the Falcons; he combines reliable hands, size and physicality with excellent blocking ability. With questions surrounding the Falcons' quarterback situation, having a reliable No. 1 receiver is essential. 

5. Jordan Davis, Philadelphia Eagles

Jordan Davis signed a three-year, $78 million contract extension with the Philadelphia Eagles; the contract includes $65 million guaranteed. The 26-year-old is going into his fifth season with the Eagles and in the NFL.  

Last season, the defensive tackle showcased his ability as an interior pass-rusher and run defender, recording 72 total tackles, 34 solo tackles and 4.5 sacks. His continued development into a disruptive interior defender made the extension an easy decision for Philadelphia.

Honorable Mention

• Derwin James Jr., Los Angeles Chargers — Three-year, $75.6 million extension

• De’Von Achane, Miami Dolphins — Four-year, $68 million extension

These extensions reflect how NFL teams continue to prioritize keeping their young stars and leaders in-house, ensuring their top talent remains in place well before reaching free agency.